Make 2014 your year to adopt, says Suffolk County Council

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Steve Barton

With 30 children in Suffolk currently looking for a permanent adoptive family, Suffolk County Council is urging people interested in giving a child a loving home to come forward.

There is a desperate need for more people to come forward to provide ‘forever families’ and it is hoped that this new year push will help inspire those wanting to make a difference and adopt a child in need in Suffolk.

Suffolk County Council is particularly looking for families for sibling groups, older children and children with disabilities. Applications are welcomed from all sectors of the community.

Councillor Lisa Chambers, Suffolk County Council’s cabinet member for children and young people, said:

“Many people think that they wouldn’t be allowed to adopt a child but often this isn’t the case. So please don’t think we’ll turn you down because of your age, relationship status, sexual orientation or even if you don’t own your own home.

“What we really need are people who can offer a child or sibling group a loving and supportive family for life. Those who can help a child recover from the reasons they came in to care and help them go on to thrive in a new family.

“Initially, we are simply asking people to come forward and find out more about adoption. If you think you might have what it takes, please pick up the phone today.”

There are an estimated 4,000 children across the UK needing adoption every year, many of whom will have suffered trauma in their short lives.

Alan Wood, deputy chief executive of British Association for Adoption and Fostering, said: “Every child has the right to live in a safe; loving; happy home.

“For those children who are unable to live within their Birth Family adoption is one of the best ways to ensure this happens.

“There is no doubt that adoption is a life changing process for all concerned, and that there are children right now who need permanent homes to grow up in.”

Anyone interested in finding out more about adoption can call Suffolk Adoption Agency on 01473 265595 or visit www.suffolk.gov.uk/care-and-support/fostering-and-adoption/adoption